Charles E. Hobson Sr., an 86-year-old Auburn Gresham resident, was fatally shot on September 23, 2023, just before 10 a.m. outside his home in the 8100 block of South Throop Street, where he had lived for more than 60 years. Witnesses and family said he was shot in the left thigh after stepping out to retrieve something from his truck; thieves then stole the vehicle. Hobson was taken to Christ Hospital in critical condition and later died.

Neighbors described Hobson as a community leader and patriarch who ran businesses including shoe stores and a residential and commercial alarm system company, and who served in several ministries at St. Mark United Methodist Church, where he had been named Man of the Year. Police canvassed the area and witnesses reported seeing officers detain three young people, but the department had not confirmed custody as the investigation continued. The community responded with shock and grief and the Illinois House of Representatives later adopted a resolution mourning his death.

If anyone knew Mr. Hobson or saw activity near the 8100 block of South Throop Street around 10 a.m. on September 23, please share what can help the investigation.